Germany’s far-right AfD eyes gains in state elections
By MAGAMARKT
Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany party, or AfD, is hoping to make gains in state elections in Thuringia and Saxony this weekend as it seeks to capitalize on a surge in support in the past year.
The two eastern states are holding elections on Sunday to elect new state legislatures. Polls suggest that the AfD stands a good chance of placing second in both states, behind the traditional major parties.
The party’s leaders are hoping for strong showings in both states, which would further solidify the AfD’s position as a major player in Germany’s political landscape.
The AfD has been steadily increasing its support in recent years, particularly in eastern Germany where many voters are disenchanted with the traditional parties. The party is known for its anti-immigrant stance and criticism of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s policies.
In Thuringia, the AfD is currently the third largest party in the state legislature. The party is hoping to build on that success and possibly even surpass the Left party to become the second largest in the state.
In Saxony, the AfD is also expected to perform well. The party currently holds the second largest number of seats in the state legislature and is looking to increase its share of the vote on Sunday.
The AfD’s rise has sparked concern among mainstream parties in Germany, who worry about the party’s nationalist rhetoric and its impact on the country’s political discourse. However, supporters of the AfD argue that the party is simply giving a voice to those who feel marginalized by the traditional parties.
Sunday’s elections in Thuringia and Saxony will be closely watched as a barometer of the AfD’s strength and popularity in eastern Germany. The results could have far-reaching implications for the country’s political future.